Arizona State has asked former Arizona Supreme Court Chief Justice Scott Bales to lead an independent review of hockey player Matthew Mayich's collapse during an August outdoor workout. Mayich, 21, suffered an exertional heat stroke that reduced oxygen to his brain and is unlikely to recover, according to family attorney Rob Carey. Bales will review ASU's findings, staffing, policies, and procedures for outdoor athletic activities, as well as the use of outside consultants.
The Arizona State police department is also investigating, with findings to be sent to the Maricopa County Attorney's Office. The Mayich family supports Bales' appointment but criticizes the scope of the review, calling for a full investigation into why the workout was allowed and why it wasn't stopped when players showed visible distress. They reference the 2018 death of Maryland football player Jordan McNair and call for Bales to report to the Arizona Board of Regents.
ASU's preliminary report noted that coach Greg Powers placed hockey coach Timothy Ziesel, a former Green Beret, on administrative leave. Powers will not join the team for its season opener at Lindenwood.
Source: ESPN NHL · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing